Using short genetic sequences to analyze biological data
Official title: Harnessing the Power of Kmers: Concepts and Methods for Genomic and Proteomic Research
Funded at Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-10941028 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny pieces of DNA and proteins to understand how they might affect our thinking and evolution, which could help us learn more about the genetic factors that influence our traits and behaviors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $413,672 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM155468-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10941028 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals from diverse ancestral backgrounds interested in genetic studies related to cognition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in genetic research or those not belonging to diverse ancestral backgrounds may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the innovative use of kmers, which are short sequences of nucleotides or peptides, to help interpret vast amounts of biological data generated in genomics and proteomics. By developing algorithms to identify unique kmers, known as quasi-primes, the research aims to explore their roles in human cognition and evolutionary biology. The project will analyze these sequences across diverse populations and species to uncover their functional significance and evolutionary history. Patients may benefit from insights gained about genetic factors influencing cognition and other traits.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of genetic factors related to cognition and evolutionary traits, potentially leading to improved health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using kmers for genomic analysis, indicating that this approach is promising and builds on established methodologies.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
Hershey, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Georgakopoulos-Soares, Ilias — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Georgakopoulos-Soares, Ilias
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.